Alledged Coup Not Reason For Independence Celebration Cancellation – DHQ

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed as false and misleading, an online publication alleging that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an attempted military coup.

In a statement in Abuja, the Director Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, said the report was baseless, malicious, and aimed at creating tension and distrust among Nigerians.

He explained that the decision to cancel the anniversary parade was taken to enable President Bola Ahmed Tinubu attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country and to allow the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) sustain ongoing operations against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry across the nation.

Brigadier General Gusau clarified that the recent arrest of sixteen officers mentioned in the report was unrelated to any coup plot.

According to him, the officers are being investigated internally for professional misconduct in line with routine disciplinary procedures.

He added that an investigative panel has been set up and its findings will be made public upon conclusion.

The Director urged members of the public to disregard the false claims and continue to support the Armed Forces and other security agencies in their efforts to safeguard the country.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains fully loyal to the Constitution and the Federal Government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,”.

Brigadier General Gusau further assured that the military, alongside other arms of government, remains committed to national unity, peace, and development, stressing that “democracy is forever.”

PR/Aisha Adesanya